Andrew Cashner out a month with lat strain

Padres right-hander Andrew Cashner will miss at least the next month because of a strained lat muscle, John Maffei of the North County Times reports.

On the upside, an MRI revealed no structural problems with Cashner's right elbow, which is contrary to initial fears. He won't require surgery, but manager Bud Black tells Maffei that Cashner will likely need "a couple of rehab starts" before he's ready to rejoin the active roster.

The hard-throwing 25-year-old had been in the midst of transitioning from a relief role to a starting role, and Black said he'll continue on that course once he returns.

On the season, Cashner has a 3.44 ERA across three starts and 27 relief outings. He's struck out 45 batters in 36.2 innings.

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